In response to the current refugee crisis, the CWC has written to the Taoiseach and all Elected Representatives. A copy of the text of the letter is below and the letter can be downloaded here for CWC members and others to use to lobby their local and national representatives.

I am writing to you on behalf of the Community Workers’ Co-operative to express our deep concern at the current humanitarian refugee crisis, which we know you share.

We welcome the Irish Government’s recent announcement to increase the numbers to be given refuge here. We urge you now to show leadership in further increasing these numbers in line with UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon’s call to European governments to do much more and “to expand safe and legal channels of migration and act with humanity, compassion, in accordance with their international obligations.”

We urge you to design an alternative to the current direct provision system to ensure that new refugees are treated with respect and dignity and are given the supports they need at what is a very difficult time for them.

We call on the Irish Government to take a courageous and humanitarian stand in line with international human rights standards in agreeing a new plan ahead of and during the emergency meeting of EU Justice and Home Affairs ministers on the 14th September.

We believe that by taking such action now you and the Irish Government will truly reflect and respond to the Irish people’s commitment to justice and rights and the growing call for significant action to be taken.